Hyundai Creta EX(O) iVT

Hey there, car enthusiasts and future car owners! Buying a new car in India is always a big decision. You juggle so many things in your mind: 'Will it fit my budget?' 'Is it safe for my family?' 'What about monthly maintenance costs?' 'Does it have all the latest features?' And, of course, 'How good is the company’s service network?' These are all crucial questions, and rightly so. Today, we’re diving deep into an exciting contender that aims to tick many of these boxes for you: the new Hyundai Creta EX(O) iVT. Let’s find out if this popular SUV is the perfect match for your garage.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

The Hyundai Creta EX(O) iVT comes with a refined 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine paired with an Intelligent Variable Transmission (iVT), which is essentially Hyundai’s take on a CVT gearbox. This combination is all about smooth, hassle-free driving, especially in city traffic.

• Engine Type: 1.5-litre MPi Petrol
• Displacement: 1497 cc
• Maximum Power: 115 PS at 6300 rpm
• Maximum Torque: 144 Nm at 4500 rpm
• Transmission: iVT (Automatic)

Design Overview

The new Hyundai Creta EX(O) iVT sports a refreshed look that’s bolder and more modern than before, building on the Creta’s already strong presence. It’s designed to turn heads!

Exterior:

• The front gets a striking new 'Parametric Jewel' design grille that integrates seamlessly with the new Horizon LED positioning lamps and LED DRLs, giving it a very distinctive light signature.
• Redesigned front and rear bumpers add to its muscular stance.
• New alloy wheel designs enhance its premium appeal.
• The connected LED taillamps at the rear ensure a modern and cohesive look.

Interior:

• Step inside, and you’re greeted by a more contemporary and sophisticated cabin.
• A refreshed dashboard layout, often featuring a dual-tone theme, feels spacious and premium.
• New AC vent designs and controls give it a high-tech feel.
• The overall cabin focuses on driver comfort and passenger convenience, making long drives enjoyable.

Key Features

The EX(O) trim is positioned as a feature-rich mid-variant, offering a strong balance of tech and convenience. Here are some notable features you can expect:

• Infotainment Screen: A large 10.25-inch HD Infotainment system.
• Connectivity: Hyundai Bluelink connected car tech, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay (wired).
• Climate Control: Automatic Climate Control for comfortable cabin temperatures.
• Convenience: Rear AC vents, Steering mounted controls, Cruise Control, Rear parking camera with dynamic guidelines, Rear parking sensors.
• Lighting: LED headlamps and LED DRLs for better visibility and a sharp look.
• Safety Additions: Paddle shifters for a more engaging drive experience.

Note: Features like Panoramic Sunroof, Wireless Charging, 360-degree camera, and ADAS are typically available in higher Creta variants.

What is the Ground Clearance of Hyundai Creta?

The Hyundai Creta offers a practical ground clearance, perfect for navigating Indian roads and occasional rough patches.

• Ground Clearance: 190 mm

What is the Boot Space of Hyundai Creta?

Space is rarely an issue with the Creta, and its boot is no exception, offering ample room for your luggage.

• Boot Space: 433 litres

What are the Dimensions of Hyundai Creta?

The Creta strikes a good balance between a commanding road presence and city maneuverability.

• Length: 4330 mm
• Width: 1790 mm
• Height: 1635 mm (with roof rails)
• Wheelbase: 2610 mm

Powertrain Options

While we are focusing on the Creta EX(O) iVT, it's good to know the Creta range offers a diverse set of engine and transmission choices to suit various driving styles:

• 1.5-litre MPi Petrol (115 PS, 144 Nm) with 6-speed Manual or iVT (Automatic) - *This is the EX(O) iVT variant*
• 1.5-litre Turbo GDi Petrol (160 PS, 253 Nm) with 7-speed DCT (Automatic)
• 1.5-litre CRDi Diesel (116 PS, 250 Nm) with 6-speed Manual or 6-speed Automatic

Safety Features

Hyundai has made safety a priority with the new Creta, offering a strong suite of active and passive safety features even in the mid-variants like the EX(O).

• Airbags: 6 airbags (standard across all variants)
• Braking: ABS with EBD (Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
• Stability Control: ESC (Electronic Stability Control), VSM (Vehicle Stability Management)
• Hill Start Assist: HAC (Hill-start Assist Control)
• Brakes: All-wheel disc brakes
• Convenience Safety: Rear parking sensors, Rear camera with dynamic guidelines
• Other: Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS - Highline)

NCAP Rating Table

Safety is paramount, and the new Creta has undergone rigorous testing.

The facelifted Hyundai Creta, tested by Bharat NCAP in March 2024, scored 3 stars for both adult and child occupant protection. This marks a commitment to local safety standards.

Rivals of Hyundai Creta EX(O) iVT

The mid-size SUV segment is fiercely competitive in India, and the Creta faces strong rivals:

• Kia Seltos
• Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara
• Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder
• Skoda Kushaq
• Volkswagen Taigun
• MG Astor

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Here’s a balanced look at what the Hyundai Creta EX(O) iVT brings to the table:

Advantages (Pros):

• Stylish Design: The new facelift gives it a fresh, bold, and premium look that stands out.
• Feature-Rich Cabin: The EX(O) variant offers a great set of features for its price point, including a large touchscreen and connected car tech.
• Smooth iVT Transmission: The automatic iVT makes city driving incredibly comfortable and stress-free.
• Refined Engine: The 1.5-litre petrol engine is known for its smoothness and quiet operation.
• Comfortable Ride: The suspension is well-tuned for Indian road conditions, offering a comfortable ride.
• Hyundai Service Network: Hyundai has a vast and reliable service network across India, ensuring peace of mind.
• Resale Value: Creta generally enjoys strong resale value in the used car market.

Disadvantages (Cons):

• Performance for Enthusiasts: While smooth, the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated iVT might feel a bit underpowered for those who prefer spirited driving on highways.
• Fuel Efficiency: While decent, it might not be class-leading compared to some hybrid rivals.
• Missing Top-end Features: The EX(O) misses out on some premium features like a panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, wireless charging, and ADAS, which are available in higher variants or some rivals.
• Rear Seat Space: While adequate, it's not the most spacious in its class for three adults.
• Pricing: Hyundai Creta's pricing can be on the higher side compared to some competitors, especially for higher variants.

Conclusion

The Hyundai Creta EX(O) iVT emerges as a very strong contender in the competitive mid-size SUV segment. It brings together a striking new design, a host of modern features, the convenience of an automatic transmission, and Hyundai’s trusted reliability. While it might not be the most powerful or the absolute cheapest option out there, its overall package of comfort, style, technology, and widespread service support makes it an excellent choice for a wide range of Indian car buyers. If you are looking for a reliable, feature-packed, and easy-to-drive automatic SUV for daily commutes and family trips, the Creta EX(O) iVT definitely deserves a closer look and a test drive. It truly is a well-rounded package that delivers on many fronts.